Fountain Valley, Calif. — D-Link is turning any stereo system or active speaker with aux input into a DLNA/AirPlay-enabled speaker that streams music via Wi-Fi from a mobile device.
The D-Link Wi-Fi Audio Extender, available in stores and online at $49, also doubles as a Wi-Fi range extender to boost Wi-Fi coverage in a home.
The device features a built-in plug to plug into an electrical outlet for power and a 3.5mm audio output to connect via cable to a sound system or active speaker. The device measures 2.13 inches by 1.65 inches by 2.15 inches.
The Extender incorporates Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11 b/g/n, AirPlay and DLNA to stream music in higher quality than Bluetooth from a mobile device, the company said. The Extender’s Wi-Fi 802.11n technology delivers speeds up to 300Mbps.
A built-in setup wizard and QRS Mobile app for mobile devices guides users through installation.
The product also features Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA/WPA2), WEP 64/128-bit encryption and WPS.
With WPS, users press a button on their existing router and then on the Wi-Fi Audio Extender to sync the router and Extender.
“What sets the Wi-Fi Audio Extender apart from many others on the market is that it uses Wi-Fi rather than Bluetooth technology for higher quality audio and better range throughout the house,” said Ken Loyd, D-Link’s consumer product marketing director.
